Creating restorative and intergenerational cultures for youth: Insights from Northern Ireland and the United States.

Source: (2011) Youth and Society. 43(2):401-413.

In conflicted societies and in societies that have glossed over major historical
abuses, civic cultures often become characterised by sensitive issues
being conscientiously avoided. This avoidance contributes to separations and
inequalities among residents and communities, and prevents the establishment
of policies that build trust and promote integration across lines of
separation. In such societies young people are seen as problems, not assets,
in public discourse. Such mental models disable a reconstructive, future
oriented policy climate where young people experience being of value. This
special issue argues for policies and practices that challenge this pessimistic
common sense about what young people can contribute. It stresses the
importance of restorative and intergenerational practices in the building of
just societies. The articles further emphasize the importance of adopting
principles of respect and inclusivity as cornerstones of policy, promoting
youth-adult partnership and other devolved models of leadership in civic
life, all within the larger context of explicitly working to secure more open,
shared and interdependent societies. (authors' abstract)